Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces: Half-Day Tour

The Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces tour is a journey through two of the most impressive treasures of the Sacred Valley. On this half-day experience, we explore the ingenious Incan laboratory at Moray and the thousands of natural ponds that form the world-famous salt mines. It is the perfect combination of history and breathtaking landscapes for those seeking a unique adventure near Cusco.

Iconic sites: Moray Terraces · Maras Village · Maras Salt Mines · Andean Highlands.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.

• Frequency: Every day.

• Languages: Bilingual guide (Spanish and English).

• Price: From $18.00 USD per person (Shared service).

• Outbound Link: Learn more about Peru’s unique destinations at Peru.travel.

⭐ Highlights of the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

• Admire the Moray agricultural laboratory and its impressive circular terraces.

• Observe the ancient salt extraction process at the Maras Salt Mines.

• Enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range and the Chicón and Verónica peaks.

• Visit the picturesque colonial village of Maras.

🗺️ Itinerary: Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

The Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces tour is designed for comfort and incredible photo opportunities:

• 🏨 08:00 AM – Pick-up: We begin the journey by collecting you from your hotel in the historic center.

• 🌀 Moray Laboratory: Our first major stop. Here, you will see the circular terraces the Incas used to acclimate seeds from different climates.

• ⛪ Maras Village: We pass through this traditional town, which still preserves stone doorways from the colonial era.

• 🧂 Maras Salt Mines: We visit the salt mines that have been exploited since pre-Incan times. The contrast of the white salt against the mountains is a unique visual spectacle.

• 🏠 02:30 PM – Drop-off: The tour concludes near Cusco’s Main Square, giving you free time for lunch.

💡 Note: All times are approximate and may be adjusted according to the group’s pace and the conditions of the day.

Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces Price

Group Service: $18.00 per person

Private services:

✅ Includes

• Professional Guide: Accredited expert in English and Spanish.

• Tourist Transport: Modern and comfortable vehicle.

• Management Fees: Transaction costs included.

❌ Not Included

• Tourist Ticket (BTG): Required for Moray (S/ 70 partial or S/ 130 full).

• Maras Salt Mines Entrance: Paid directly at the site (approx. S/ 20.00 / $6.00).

• Extras: Personal expenses and snacks.

💡 Note:

The Boleto Turístico for Peruvian citizens is 70 Soles (General) or 40 Soles (Partial). All entrance tickets must be purchased at the archaeological sites using cash and local currency (Soles).

🎒 What to Pack for the Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

• ☀️ Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Radiation is high in these open areas.

• 🧢 Dress in “Layers”: Moray often has a cool breeze, while the Maras Salt Mines can feel very hot due to the sun’s reflection.

• 🌧️ Rain Poncho: Essential if you are visiting between November and March.

• 🎟️ ID & Tickets: Bring your original document and your Cusco Tourist Ticket.

• 💵 Cash (Soles): Mandatory to pay the entrance fee at the Salt Mines (cards are not accepted) and for salt souvenirs.

💡 Recommendations for a Better Experience

1. Protect Your Eyes: At the Maras Salt Mines, the white salt reflects intense light; high-quality sunglasses are a must.

2. Stay Hydrated: The tour is easy, but the dry mountain air can dehydrate you quickly.

3. Support the Community: The salt mines are managed by the local community. Buying their famous “Pink Salt” is a great way to support them.

4. Footwear: Wear shoes with good traction, as the paths around the salt ponds can be slightly slippery.

❓ FAQ – Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces

1. Is this tour suitable for people with knee problems?

Yes, physical effort is minimal. At both Moray and the Salt Mines, you walk along mostly flat paths with very few stairs.

2. Can you walk inside the salt ponds?

For conservation and health reasons, visitors are currently only allowed to view the ponds from designated viewpoints.

3. What Tourist Ticket do I need for the tour?

You need the Partial Tourist Ticket (Circuit III) or the General Ticket. Remember that the entrance to the Salt Mines is a separate fee.

ADDITIONAL GROUP TOURS IN CUSCO (bus and guide)

• City Tour $ 12.00
• Sacred Valley Tour $ 18.00
• Southern Valley $ 20.00